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Scientia Silvae Sinicae ›› 2026, Vol. 62 ›› Issue (4): 217-230.doi: 10.11707/j.1001-7488.LYKX20250497

• Reviews • Previous Articles    

Research Progress in Metabolic Regulation of Terpene Trilactones in Ginkgo biloba

Caini Wang,Ying Li,Dongxue Su,Weiwei Geng,Jiabao Ye*(),Feng Xu*(),Weiwei Zhang,Yongling Liao   

  1. Hubei Key Laboratory of Spices and Horticultural Plant Germplasm Innovation and Utilization Jingzhou 434025
  • Received:2025-08-07 Online:2026-04-15 Published:2026-04-11
  • Contact: Jiabao Ye,Feng Xu E-mail:yejiabao13@163.com;xufeng198@126.com

Abstract:

: Ginkgo biloba is a national first-class protected relict plant belonging to the genus Ginkgo in the family Ginkgoaceae, boasting high ornamental, economic, and medicinal values. Terpene trilactones, as one of the most significant bioactive components in G. biloba leaves, exhibit anti-dengue, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties. Specifically, they demonstrate a potent and specific inhibitory effect on platelet-activating factor receptors and serve as effective agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Consequently, the content of terpene trilactone is considered a crucial selection index in the breeding of superior G. biloba varieties. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the regulatory network underlying the biosynthesis of terpene trilactones. Based on the Methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) and Mevalonate (MVA) pathways, the positive and negative regulatory roles of 20 identified structural genes, five categories of key transcription factors (including MYB, WRKY, bZIP, bHLH, and AP2/ERF), and two types of non-coding RNAs (miRNA and lncRNA) are thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, the indirect effects of environmental factors (such as light, temperature, water, and nutrients) and plant hormones (including ABA, SA, MeJA, IAA, ETH, GA3, and CCC) on the biosynthesis of terpene trilactones are systematically analyzed. It is clarified that external environmental stimuli, such as ultraviolet radiation and moderate drought, as well as the exogenous application of hormones, such as MeJA, SA, and CCC, can significantly enhance the accumulation of terpene trilactones in G. biloba leaves. Additionally, the factors such as soil fertility, planting density, and the occurrence of pests and diseases also influence their accumulation. Finally, a synergistic strategy integrating “endogenous gene regulation” and “exogenous environmental optimization” is proposed to promote the content of terpene trilactones. This review aims to provide theoretical guidance with significant reference value for future production practices and scientific research, thereby maximizing the medicinal and commercial potential of G. biloba.

Key words: Ginkgo biloba, terpene trilactones, biosynthesis, regulation network, environmental factors, plant hormones

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